East African medical journal
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This review of surgical ouput in eastern Africa and other developing countries, is based mainly on published, and to a small extent, on unpublished sources, such as hospital annual reports. It is noted that poorly standardized classification of surgical operations is a problem in recording and reporting, and that one internationally agreed classification would be useful in comparative studies. Rates of major surgical operations in sub-Saharan Africa are 70-500 per 100,000 population per year with inguinal hernia repair, caesarean section, hydrocele operation and surgical management of injuries as the most common major operations. ⋯ Almost nothing is known about minor surgery performed at health centres and dispensaries or about surgical cases referred to hospital, and population-based rates of minor surgery cannot therefore be calculated. Resources are scarce, but can be more effectively utilized. Further research should include: (a) population-based output of major and minor operations in different countries and regions; (b) outcome after a few selected operations, preferably selected in consultation with researchers studying medical care outcome in other countries; (c) availability and use of surgery-related resources such as manpower, equipment and supplies; and (d) assessment of needs for surgery using household health survey methods.